Walrus / Seal Shaman - Jerome Saclamana

Walrus / Seal Shaman

In this work by Saclamana, the ivory masks are arranged in a totem-like structure on a piece of whalebone. The top mask is reminiscent of the traditional King Island Dance masks and the bottom two bear Saclamana's trademark "winking" eyes. He has adorned the totem with accoutrements common in the hunt, a harpoon and knife. The combination of these hunting elements with animal and human composites reflects the connection of the spirits in the hunt for subsistence. The shamans would make peace with the animal spirits before a hunt and attain permission before setting forth.